Pitbull could face death after poodle attack

A Toronto pitbull could face death after attacking a poodle Monday night in the north end of the city.

A poodle was out on a walk Monday in the Wilson Avenue and Avenue Road area when the pitbull charged at the poodle and attacked it.

Passersby attempted to hold down the pitbull; one man was reportedly bitten.

Det. Carolyn Vandenberg of Toronto Police’s 32 Division said she was not sure of the poodle’s status, but that the pitbull is now in the custody of Toronto Animal Services. Police are looking for its owner, who will likely face charges under the Animal Liabilities Act.

The pitbull was taken to the Animal Services’ building on Eglinton Avenue, where it is being held in quarantine. According to the Act, pitbulls are restricted animals and must be leashed and muzzled in public at all times. Dog owners found in contravention can be fined up to $10,000 and face up to six months in prison. The restricted animal is generally euthanized.

Bruce Hawkins, with Animal Services, said he is not 100% certain this pitbull will be put down.

“It depends on the age of the dog,” he said. “If the dog was alive before the provincial laws came into effect, which I believe was in 2004, then it might not be euthanized.”